Couple from Brazil breaks world record: longest marriage of a living couple
Maria de Sousa Dino and Manoel Angelim Dino, both centenarians, recently made headlines for breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest marriage of a living couple. The couple, who have been married for an impressive 84 years and 85 days, first met in Brazil in 1936 when Manoel was collecting sweets. However, it wasn’t until 1940 that they reconnected and fell in love at first sight.
Despite initial hesitation from Maria’s mother, Manoel won her favor by building a home for their future family. The couple went on to have 13 children and now have 55 grandchildren, 54 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren. They spent their days growing tobacco in Brazil and have now settled into a peaceful retirement at home.
Manoel, now 105, spends most of his time resting due to his age. However, he makes a point to join Maria in their living room every evening to listen to a rosary prayer on the radio followed by Mass on television. When asked about the secret to their long-lasting marriage, Maria simply stated, “Love. And that’s something even the most advanced computer could never calculate.”
The couple’s remarkable milestone surpasses the previous record held by an American couple, Herbert and Zelmyra Fisher, who were married for 86 years and 290 days. The longest-ever recorded marriage belongs to David and Sarah Hiller, whose union lasted an incredible 88 years and 349 days.
As Maria and Manoel continue to enjoy their golden years together, their story serves as a testament to the power of love and commitment. Their enduring bond is a true inspiration to couples everywhere, proving that with love and dedication, anything is possible.
